Skip the trip to the Bahamas this year and stay on American soil with a deserted beach.
Ana Maria Island on Florida’s Gulf Coast “was once a best-kept secret” among locals.
The underrated island nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay offers white sand beaches and emerald green waters.
Although it is no longer a secret, the island is located in a quiet commercial district, which keeps it isolated.
Anna Maria spans over 7 miles and is home to a population of over 1,000 as of 2020.
With an average age of 60 on the island, the picturesque community consists mainly of families, children and singles.
Local inhabitants, committed to a vision of sustainability, signed the island as a partner. for Leave No Trace in 2023, an environmental protection group.
The island became the first Florida destination to partner with the national organization.
Anna Maria Island was also named one of the Travel + LeisureThe 50 best places to travel in the world in 2024.
Visitors can sign up for community turtle and shorebird watching events every Tuesday, as well as marine and wildlife tours.
Operators Boat trips in paradise It is AMI Dolphin Tours organize intimate group tours seven days a week with guaranteed dolphin sightings.
“During your tour through the stunning waters of Anna Maria Island, we will provide a fully narrated experience as we look for dolphins, manatees, fish, rays and other wildlife,” the Paradise Boat Tours website said.
Travelers on a budget can also sign up for free turtle and shorebird watching events every Tuesday.
Foodies can expect to be pleasantly surprised by the Seaside restaurantVoted the best overall restaurant on the island by locals.
The Zagat rating Beach bistroa culinary experience offering a four-course tasting menu, was nominated for a James Beard award for its innovative dishes, including Maple Leaf Farms duck.
Visitors can move around the island taking advantage of the free air conditioning island cart, which begins its circular route at 6am.
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According to the Chamber of Commerce, the island also has an annual average of 242 days of sunshine and a subtropical climate.
Visitors who want an empty beach should plan accordingly for the summer and winter seasons, which are the busiest due to school holidays.
Summer is also usually hurricane season to the island, which officially lasts from June 1st to November 30th.
The peak of the season, Florida tourism website observed, it lasts from mid-August to mid-October.
The best time to visit might be in the spring, from March to May.
With high temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s in the spring, the waters are also the perfect range for a swim, ranging from the mid-60s to 80 degrees.
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This story originally appeared on The-sun.com read the full story
